Innovative Projects in PM Surya Ghar Yojana: Blockchain, Smart Materials, and More

Innovative Projects in PM Surya Ghar Yojana: Blockchain, Smart Materials, and More

Sub : Schemes

Sec: Economy

Why in News

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has introduced a ₹500-crore sub-component for innovative projects under the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana. The initiative aims to boost novel solutions in rooftop solar installations, leveraging cutting-edge technologies like blockchain, smart materials, and electric vehicle integration.

About the scheme:

The scheme Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, with an investment of over Rs. 75,000 crores, aims to light up 1 crore households by providing up to 300 units of free electricity every month.

The scheme aims to incentivise the adoption of solar energy among residential consumers, promoting sustainability and reducing reliance on conventional energy sources.

It is a grid connected rooftop solar PV system, where the DC power generated from a solar panel converted to AC power using a power conditioning unit/Inverter and is fed to the grid.

All stakeholders will be integrated into a National Online Portal.

In order to popularize this scheme at the grassroots, Urban Local Bodies and Panchayats shall be incentivised to promote rooftop solar systems in their jurisdictions.

The scheme will lead to more income, lesser power bills and employment generation for people.

Under the scheme, subsidies will be given directly to people’s bank accounts.

The government has appointed eight central public sector undertakings (CPSUs) to implement the scheme across all states and union territories of the country.

These include NTPC, NHPC, EESL, PowerGrid, Grid-India, THDC, SJVN and NEEPCO. 

These CPSUs will be responsible for installation of rooftop solar in one crore households.

Under rooftop installation, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are fixed atop a building, home, or a residential property

Focus on Innovation: ₹500 Crore for New Projects:

A ₹500-crore allocation has been set aside specifically for fostering “Innovative Projects” related to solar installations.

The National Institute for Solar Energy (NISE), under the Ministry, will be responsible for implementing this component.

Companies and individuals can submit proposals for unique, technology-driven projects. Proposals will be reviewed by a committee, ensuring that only the most promising and impactful projects are selected.

Examples of Innovative Projects

Blockchain-based Peer-to-Peer Energy Trading: Projects focused on using blockchain technology to enable peer-to-peer energy trading between rooftop solar users.

Smart Building Materials: The use of smart materials integrated with solar panels to enhance energy efficiency and reduce installation costs.

RTS with Electric Vehicle (EV) Integration: Projects that connect rooftop solar installations with electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. This integration is crucial for creating a sustainable energy ecosystem.

Grid-Responsive Solar Systems with Battery Storage: Projects combining rooftop solar with battery storage solutions for better management of energy supply, especially during peak demand.

DISCOM Systems for Solar Management: Proposals focused on improving Distribution Company (DISCOM) systems for better management of solar energy in grids.